iOS 17.4 introduces the ability to download apps outside the App Store for iPhone users based in the European Union via alternative app marketplaces. A new video shared on Threads today gives us a first look at what European iPhone users can expect when downloading apps from alternative marketplaces.
The video is courtesy of AltStore developer Riley Testut, with AltStore being one of the first to reveal plans for creating an iOS 17.4 alternative marketplace. Testut’s video shows a test app downloaded from the AltStore, with the video also revealing the iOS-mandated confirmation screen. The confirmation screen includes several pieces of information that verify the app’s download, including the marketplace’s name, the app’s icon and description, and the app’s developer. The app downloads and installs normally once confirmation and biometric authentication are successful.
Apple has already drawn criticism from some developers and EU policymakers over its current implementation of the DMA with iOS 17.4 as the European Commission launched a compliance investigation. While one of the main points of contention is Apple introducing several hurdles to prevent users from accessing and using alternative app marketplaces, Testut’s video seemingly refutes those claims as the app download process seems largely similar to what occurs when downloading apps from the App Store.
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iOS 17.4 introduces massive changes to the app ecosystem for European iPhone users as mandated by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) which went into effect earlier this month. In addition to alternative app marketplace support, iOS 17.4 makes it easier for iPhone users in the EU to set up a third-party web browser other than Safari as default. iOS 17.4 also supports non-WebKit web engines for browser apps, as well as allowing banks to access the iPhone’s NFC chip to make third-party contactless payment solutions and Apple Pay competitors.
Beyond the changes introduced with iOS 17.4, Apple is planning several future changes as mandated by the DMA. The company is working to make it possible to download apps directly from the internet while skipping alternative marketplaces. In addition, Apple has also outlined plans to make it easier to switch from iPhone to Android within the next year.
